You can help your dog by catching liver disease early and making small changes before it becomes severe. Take them to the vet for their yearly exams and vaccinations (including one that protects against leptospirosis). Make sure your vet is aware of any drugs or supplements they may take. Be mindful of what you feed your dog. Fatty foods can hurt their liver. And dont let your dog roam free in areas where there may be poisonous plants or insects.
If your dog has some symptoms of liver problems, your vet may ask you about their diet and medications. The vet may want to do blood tests and X-rays or an ultrasound to get a picture of what is going on with your dogs liver. They may also want to take a biopsy — remove a small tissue sample for testing.
The liver is an important organ for your dog. It helps with digestion and blood clotting, and it removes toxins from their system. If its not working right, it can make your companion sick. But liver disease can often be treated and managed.
How to Treat Liver Failure in Dogs
The treatment plan for liver failure is highly dependent on the dogs specific case, says Graham. Your veterinarian will be able to talk you through treatment options. Be aware that treatment for liver failure can be extremely expensive—Graham says it can be up to thousands of dollars to diagnose and aggressively treat liver failure with intravenous fluids, antibiotics, blood or platelet transfusions, and intensive nursing care.
Consider pet insurance if you adopt a breed thats susceptible to liver problems or enlist in a program that can help with veterinary bills if you need it. Be sure to discuss your options and any concerns openly with your vet to ensure you find the best course of action for both you and your dog.
Signs and Symptoms of Dog Liver Failure
According to Graham, the most common and recognizable signs of liver failure include:
If you notice any of these symptoms, bring your dog to a veterinarian immediately. Liver failure is a serious and often fatal issue, but it can sometimes be prevented if caught in the early stages of liver disease.
How To Treat Liver Disease In Dogs | Liver Failure In Dogs | Dogtor Pete
Your dogs liver is one of their vital organs, breaking down medications and flushing toxins from their bloodstream, storing vitamins and minerals, and producing and releasing nutrients into their body. Liver failure in dogs can follow liver disease, or it can occur suddenly. In either case, liver failure is a serious condition that is often fatal. Knowing what to look out for and expect can help you catch it early and increase your dogs comfort and chances of recovery.